Our Mission

Through civic education, the Judicial Learning Center promotes public understanding of the role of courts in upholding the rule of law.

Our Vision

A civically engaged society in which every individual values the judicial system as a cornerstone of American justice, grounded in understanding and respect for the rule of law.

Our Core Values & Guiding Principles

Empowerment – We believe that informed citizens are essential to a functioning democracy and that knowledge of the courts empowers civic engagement.

• We demystify the judicial process to make court functions understandable to all.
• We facilitate real-world, immersive learning experiences that build lasting connections with our audience.

Collaboration – We believe advancing public understanding of the judiciary relies on strategic connections and meaningful partnerships.

• We support the education initiatives of the federal courts in the St. Louis region and throughout the Eighth Circuit and partner with the courts to offer a public learning center in the Thomas F. Eagleton U.S. Courthouse.
• We work with educators, judges, attorneys, civic organizations, and other stakeholders to create and deliver accurate and engaging content.

Accessibility – We believe that ensuring a lasting democracy depends on fostering civic education for learners of all ages and ability levels.

• We strengthen public understanding of the courts by providing developmentally appropriate resources that highlight the judiciary’s role in democracy.
• We consider local and national standards and best practices in civic education when designing materials for students and teachers.
• We offer web-based resources and work with community organizations and schools to expand our reach to those unable to travel to the courthouse.

Impartiality – We believe that upholding the rule of law ensures fairness, accountability, and equal justice for all.

• We deliver unbiased, fact-based education that fosters informed citizenship without political influence.

About Us

The Judicial Learning Center, Inc. is an independent Missouri not-for-profit corporation founded by leaders of the legal community.

The physical space for The Judicial Learning Center is located in the Thomas F. Eagleton U.S. Courthouse in downtown St. Louis, Missouri. It is dedicated to promoting public understanding of the importance of an independent judiciary and the rule of law in American society.

Content for The Judicial Learning Center exhibit was developed in consultation with prominent educators, attorneys, museum experts, community leaders and judges to insure the displays further the mission of the Center. Taylor Studios, Inc. of Rantoul, Illinois designed, fabricated and installed the displays. Funding for the exhibits was provided by the not-for-profit corporation.

The Judicial Learning Center opened on February 25, 2009 and was dedicated by U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor.

The Judicial Learning Center is the focal point for education activities in and through the Thomas F. Eagleton U.S. Courthouse. It was the first educational center in the country devoted to the judicial process in the federal courts, and is steadily becoming a national model.

The exhibits focus on the importance of “The Rule of Law” and depict how and why the federal court system was created. The differences between state and federal courts are also outlined. Other highlights include an exhibit on landmark Eighth Circuit cases and interactive displays which allow visitors to serve as jurors and preside as a judge.

Other Center sponsored activities include annual summer teacher institutes, Scout programs, Law Day, and Constitution Day.

Special thanks to Gray, Ritter & Graham, P.C. for its generous underwriting support of this website.